Category Archives: Normandie

The Bayeux Tapestry

Today on Join Us in France we take you to Bayeux, the prettiest little city in lower Normandy and a place where everyone seems to speak English! Bayeux is a must-see city for history buffs for many reasons, starting with those two: the Bayeux Tapestry and WWII history. This, and more, on today’s show. Enjoy!

Would you like to tour France with Annie and Elyse? Visit Addicted to France to choose an upcoming tour.

Episode Highlights

A brief history

What is the city famous for today

Local food specialties

Vikings in Normandy

What is the Bayeux Tapestry about?

Harold betrays William

William the Conqueror and the armada

Harold gets killed by an arrow that went through his eye

The beginning of French influence on England

Work of art and documentation of history

70 meters long, it is an embroidered scroll more than a tapestry

Superb colors and intricate details

Tells a story much like a comic strip would today

Incredible craftsmanship

During WWII

The Cathedral and surroundings today

Medieval Festival the first week-end of July

Other things you can visit nearby having to do with WWII

Calvados, the drink and the department

Conclusion: Bayeux is a great central location from which to visit Normandy, the Bayeux Tapestry is a must-see, the city center is gorgeous, and the people are friendly. If you’re looking to get out of Paris, this may be the place for you!

D-Day History and Normandy Invasion Special

In this special episode on D-Day History and the Normandy Invasion, Annie and Elyse remember the events of D-Day seventy years ago and the bravery of people involved. Elyse puts the whole tragic day into context: events leading up to it and a few critical details of what happened on that day. Then we share our experiences visiting the beaches in Normandy, the museums, the cemeteries. This is definitely a sobering and emotional topic, but seventy years later we should ask again: Are French grateful today? What are you likely to experience when you visit? Did this day truly change the course of time?

Would you like to tour France with Annie and Elyse? Visit Addicted to France to choose an upcoming tour.

Episode Highlights

Introduction: 70th Anniversary celebrations in France

Setting the stage for the invasion: major players

The decoy operation

Preparations for D-Day

The invasion

Weather

Breakdown of troops by nationality

The Battle of Normandy

Memorials in Normandy

Conclusion: D-Day History plays a big part in French history and French people have not forgotten